The Kramer Volante HSS is the modern superstrat done right. The Humbucker-Single-Single configuration gives you metal authority in the bridge and Strat-style single-coil magic in the middle and neck. Combined with thermally aged maple and a compound radius neck, the Volante HSS is a genre-spanning machine that doesn’t compromise.
Superstrat Engineering
The superstrat category encompasses guitars that improve on the Strat template—thinner finishes, faster necks, modern hardware. Kramer’s Volante takes this further. The lightweight alder body has a modern contour that sits perfectly against your body. The upper-horn cutaway gives you fret access without the aggressive geometry of a V-body.
The thermally aged maple neck is the standout feature. Thermal aging mimics the natural aging process of vintage wood—it increases stability, reduces moisture sensitivity, and improves resonance. You get a neck that plays like a 50-year-old instrument but has modern reliability. This is wood science applied to craftsmanship.
Specifications & Hardware
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Body | Lightweight Alder |
| Neck | Thermally Aged Maple, Compound Radius |
| Fretboard | Rosewood, 24 Jumbo Frets |
| Pickups | Kramer USA Triton Singles (neck & middle), Neptune Humbucker (bridge) |
| Bridge | Modern Hardtail with Tremolo Cavity |
| Tuners | Modern Locking Tuners |
| Controls | Master Volume, Master Tone, 5-Way Switch |
| Price Range | $749–$949 |
The HSS pickup configuration is the superstrat gold standard. The bridge humbucker delivers thick, aggressive tones for rhythm work and solos. The two Triton single-coil pickups provide Strat-style brightness and shimmer for solos and clean tones. The five-way switch gives you nine possible combinations—neck, middle, neck+middle, middle+bridge, bridge alone, and blended combinations.
The Kramer USA Triton single-coil pickups are modern interpretations of vintage Strat tones. They’re articulate without being shrill. They cut through a mix without losing warmth. Combined with the bridge Neptune humbucker, you have a pickup system that handles everything from Texas blues to modern metal.
The modern hardtail bridge with tremolo cavity is a practical compromise. No floating tremolo to maintain, but the cavity is routed if you want to add a Strat-style tremolo later. The hardtail is rock-solid in tuning stability, which suits aggressive rhythm playing.
Who Is It For?
Players seeking genuine genre flexibility. If your setlist spans Hendrix covers, modern rock, and metal shred, the Volante HSS covers it all. The thermally aged maple appeals to players who understand wood quality and care about resonance. The pickup configuration attracts players who rejected single-humbucker guitars because they wanted more flexibility.
Intermediate to advanced players will appreciate the technical details. Beginners will appreciate the straightforward five-way switch and familiar superstrat layout.
For another take on the Kramer formula, check out the Dave Mustaine Vanguard 2026 Tour.
Comparison: Volante HSS vs. Volante HH vs. Assault Figured
Volante HSS: Superstrat, HSS pickups, thermally aged maple, hardtail bridge. Maximum genre flexibility.
Volante HH: Superstrat, two humbuckers, thermally aged maple. Metal-focused version of the Volante platform.
Assault Figured: Single-cutaway, figured maple top, Tune-O-Matic bridge. More traditional, less genre-spanning.
The Volante HSS is for players who need flexibility without sacrificing metal capability. The Volante HH is for pure metal focus. The Assault Figured is for single-cutaway traditionalists. Choose based on body style and pickup preference.
The Kramer Pacer Deluxe Collection offers a different approach within the same Kramer family.
Tone & Versatility
The lightweight alder body combined with thermally aged maple creates a tone that’s bright and articulate. Single-coil positions deliver classic Strat character. The bridge humbucker roars with authority. The five-way switch lets you blend these extremes into anything you need in the moment.
The hardtail bridge contributes to sustain and clarity. No tremolo means no tuning instability from aggressive playing. The bridge is a working platform, not a novelty.
Playing the Volante HSS is about having tools. The pickup configuration gives you options. The hardtail gives you stability. The thermally aged neck gives you responsiveness. This guitar enables playing across genres without compromise.
For a competing option, the Jackson Misha Mansoor Juggernaut HT6 targets a similar player at a comparable price point.
Pricing & Value
At $749–$949, the Volante HSS is priced competitively for a superstrat with thermally aged maple and USA-made pickups. You’re getting legitimate hardware and tonal versatility at a reasonable price point. This is excellent value for a modern superstrat.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- HSS configuration provides genuine genre flexibility
- Thermally aged maple neck improves stability and resonance
- Kramer USA pickups deliver articulate, balanced tones
- Five-way switch offers numerous tonal combinations
- Lightweight alder body is comfortable and resonant
- Hardtail bridge ensures tuning stability
- Modern superstrat platform is familiar and reliable
- Excellent value for spec level
Cons:
- Hardtail bridge limits tremolo players
- Single-coil pickups require hum-shielding in high-noise environments
- Thermally aged maple is premium material with higher cost
- Less visually distinctive than specialty designs
Bottom Line
The Kramer Volante HSS is the thinking player’s superstrat. Thermally aged maple, USA-made pickups, and an HSS configuration that covers every genre create a guitar that grows with you. Whether you’re a session player, working musician, or serious amateur, the Volante HSS delivers versatility and quality without compromise.
Highly recommended for players seeking one guitar that genuinely covers multiple styles.
For a competing option, the Charvel Super-Stock So-Cal Aged Arctic targets a similar player at a comparable price point.
FAQ
What is thermally aged maple?
Wood heated in a kiln to simulate natural aging. It increases stability, reduces moisture sensitivity, and improves resonance. You get a neck that feels like a vintage instrument but with modern reliability.
Can I add a tremolo to the Volante HSS?
Yes. The body has a tremolo cavity routed, so a Strat-style tremolo can be installed. The hardtail bridge is meant to be stable by design, but upgrading is possible.
What’s the five-way switch arrangement on the Volante HSS?
Position 1: Bridge pickup alone. Position 2: Bridge + Middle. Position 3: Middle alone. Position 4: Middle + Neck. Position 5: Neck alone. This is standard Strat 5-way configuration.
Is the Volante HSS good for metal?
Yes. The Neptune bridge humbucker has enough output and aggression for metal. The single-coil positions add versatility for non-metal sections. This is a superstrat that can handle metal without limitation.